Ben En is dubbed "Ha Long on land" with several islands. (Photo: truyenhinhthanhhoa.vn)

An hour’s drive along National Highway 45 brings tourists from Thanh Hoa city to  Ben En National Park. The park’s 14,000 hectares stretch from Nhu Thanh to Nhu Xuan district and most of this area is primeval forest, the habitat of many rare species of flora and fauna.

Song Muc Lake, covering 4,000 hectares in the heart of the park, is fed by four mountain streams. The deepest point of the lake is about 25 to 30 meters below the surface.

The water remains a beautiful shade of blue throughout the year, just as it has for centuries, evoking the memory of a legendary tale. According to this tale, when heaven and earth were still in turmoil, Muc (Squid), the son of the Dragon King, swam upstream from the East Sea, venturing deep into the heart of the mainland to marvel at its beauty.

Entranced by the majestic scenery, he forgot the time and when the tide receded, he found himself stranded. Unable to return to the sea, he cried bitterly and then died in the forest. His tears became a river, which was named the Muc River. The spot where he died became a deep lake and his tentacles became streams full of tears.

Seen from above, Muc Lake’s feeder streams look like squid tentacles winding through the forest seeking a way back to the sea. Le Cong Cuong, Director of Ben En National Park, said: “Ben En National Park was established in 1992. We have enhanced forest protection activities and helped the locals improve their livelihoods and develop ecotourism.”

Ben En is a special gift that nature has bestowed on Thanh Hoa province. (Photo: truyenhinhthanhhoa.vn)

Nature created in this land a masterpiece of mountains, rivers, and lakes, and people have bestowed on the islands beautiful names like Love, Couple, Embarrassment, Heaven, Dream, and Hope.

The beauty of Ben En changes with the seasons. In its vast expanse, time seems to slow and there is only the sound of the wind and the waves.

Photographer Trong Thang said: “The beautiful scenery is exciting. The Ben En tour is fantastic. There are many beautiful islands and the ecosystem is diverse. This land and the local people motivate visitors to come back.”

Tourists hire small boats to travel from island to island. Many fish or have a picnic on the lake.

“The scenery is amazing. I often come here with my family and friends. After a busy work week, we enjoy a comfortable, relaxing weekend here.”

“We’re having chicken and fish for lunch. The food is delicious.”

The Ben En National Park Management Board has developed boat tours of the lakes  to explore the flora and fauna of the islands. On some of the islands the Board has built roads, huts, and accommodations for tourists.

Le Ngoc Hoa, Vice Chairwoman of the People's Committee of Nhu Thanh district, said: “Ben En National Park is working with Sun Group to develop tourism programs. We’ll promote community tourism in localities adjacent to the Park.”

The natural landscape and the cultures of the Thai, Kinh, Muong, and Tho ethnic groups draw visitors to Ben En. After a day of exploration, visitors can join the locals in folk art performances and immerse themselves in the serenity of life far from the city.

Vinh Phong